A campaign to reach out and pay tribute to the veteran community has been launched in Bundaberg.
Locals are being asked to display stickers on their vehicles and shopfront windows which thanks veterans for their service.
The initiative was born in response to the shocking number of returned servicemen and women suffering from mental health illnesses.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett, who launched the campaign with the Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch on Remembrance Day, said the stickers serve as a daily reminder of the selfless contributions and sacrifice made by members of the defence community.
Mr Bennett is determined to see the bumper stickers adorned on every single vehicle and shopfront window in the Bundaberg and Burnett region.
“It is hoped that the stickers can draw more focus to our service members who have served our country to let them know we are truly grateful and proud of their service,” Mr Bennett said.
“It’s important to reach out to our returned servicemen and women and let them know we care and appreciate the enormous sacrifices made for the freedom we continue to enjoy today.
“Obviously we do pay our respects, but often this is restricted to ANZAC and Remembrance Day each year. It would be wonderful for veterans to see these stickers on thousands of vehicles as a daily reminder that we genuinely value their service.
“We can’t pretend to fully comprehend their sacrifice, but we can support them and their families.”
Sunshine Coast resident Jasmin Carmel initiated the campaign after tragically losing her son, Jarrad, who had served in Afghanistan.
Ms Carmel said she was determined to make a difference to the lives of veterans.
“We aren’t going to save lives, but we certainly are going to improve them,” Ms Carmel said.
“We can and will make a difference.”
Mr Bennett said the number of those within the veteran community who were suffering from mental health related issues was alarming.
“I’ve spoken with many veterans who find themselves feeling isolated and misunderstood due to post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health related issues,” he said.
“We must find ways to reach out to them and encourage social interaction and offer our reassurance that they are not alone. The appreciation sticker is just one way to show that we care.”
The campaign has been welcomed by the Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch.
“The Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch is pleased to support this initiative as we continue to provide support to the veteran community in many ways, assisting with their reintegration into the community,” Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch Secretary Rudy Valzan said.
“The Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch acknowledges the sacrifice of all of our ex-service community in both peace and war. It is a huge ask for our young people to serve and protect this great nation from those who will try and take our way of life from us.”
For assistance, contact the Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch Welfare Coordinator, Mick Lay, on 4132 6512.
To order your complimentary sticker, complete an online contact form here. or email [email protected]. Contact the Burnett Electorate Office for more details on 4111 5100.
ENDS.